Commissions Module - Lesson 15: Medicare Supplements & Medicare Advantage

The Commissions Module equips participants with a practical understanding of how compensation flows across carriers, BGAs, and advisors, and why it is central to advisor retention and firm health. The course covers first-year, renewal, and trail commissions, as well as product-specific differences across life, annuities, hybrids, long-term care, and Medicare products.

Learners will explore inforce transactions that impact pay, regulatory considerations in states like New York, and how to resolve commission errors quickly to maintain trust. The module also introduces the role of technology and reporting systems in reconciling payments, managing hierarchies, and ensuring compliance. By the end, participants will be able to interpret statements, anticipate commission impacts, and support accurate, timely compensation across diverse product lines.

Lesson Overview:

Medicare Supplements & Medicare Advantage

This lesson introduces commissions for Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage products. Learners will explore how commissions differ from traditional models, with flat fees set by CMS or percent-of-premium arrangements. The lesson also highlights challenges with tracking, renewals, and licensing requirements unique to Medicare products.

Learning Objectives

• Differentiate between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage commissions.

• Explain how flat fees vs. percent-of-premium models impact advisor pay.

• Recognize the timing and reconciliation challenges of Medicare commissions.

• Understand regulatory and licensing requirements for Medicare sales.

COURSE CONTRIBUTORS